2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1310 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
